The Aztecs developed technology that suited a great empire. Among the culture’s accomplishments were advances in mathematics, astronomy, timekeeping, weapons, and medicine.
The Aztecs created a system of mathematics to suit their needs. They used a system based on the number 20. Math was used in business, to determine the amount of tribute owed to the empire, and to record property measurements.
Writing Numbers, Aztec Style
The Aztecs had several different ways of writing numbers. They used dots to represent the numbers 1 through 19. Numbers larger than 19 featured dots and symbols.
Special symbols represented the numbers 20, 400, and 8,000. the Aztecs used flags for 20, feathers for 400, and incense bags for 8,000. Using that system, the number 867 would be written using seven vertical dots (7), three flags (60), and two feathers (400 x 2 = 800).
The dots and symbols beneath this drawing of a minor god are good examples of the lines and dots used in the Aztec numbering system.
A culture that went to war needed weapons. Axe blades were made from stone. Sharp knives and spear blades were made from obsidian. The Aztecs also developed a spear-thrower, an atlatl. This was a sling used to help propel the spear. It could also be used for fishing and hunting. An expert with the atlatl could bring down a deer.
Warriors made a kind of sword called a macuahuitl out of wood with an obsidian blade. It was used as a cutting weapon. It was sharp enough to cut off a person’s head or kill a horse. The Aztecs also had bows and arrows for war and hunting.
World History
